World's 20 Inspiring Women to Follow in 2025
Company: Emirates Airlines / Universities
Designation: Executive Leader, Change Management & Strategic Transformation Specialist
Country: Australia
Shayne Harries has dedicated more than two decades to transforming organizations, driving cultural change, and empowering leaders to thrive in complex environments. With executive leadership experience across universities and Emirates Airlines, she has consistently brought a human-centered approach to change management, ensuring resilience in balancing professional transformation with personal caregiving and advocacy.
Her personal journey over the past decade has been shaped by a deep commitment to Alzheimer’s dementia care, following the loss of her father to this disease. Passionate about raising awareness and funding for research, she is also advocating for reforms in education and healthcare systems to provide specialized care that truly meets the needs of patients and families.
Throughout her career, Shayne has delivered complex organizational transformations and strategic leadership across diverse sectors, including higher education, aviation, and corporate enterprise. Known for her ability to navigate high-stakes environments, inspire teams, and deliver measurable results, she has consistently reshaped institutions for long-term success.
Her leadership style is defined by empathy, collaboration, and courage, qualities that have earned her multiple Vice-Chancellor’s Performance Awards for Excellence in Innovation and Leadership. Whether overseeing enterprise-wide change, integrating new technologies, or mentoring emerging leaders, Shayne focuses on creating environments where people are inspired to perform at their best and where transformation is sustainable.